brethren

1 of 2

breth·​ren ˈbret͟h-rən 

ˈbre-t͟hə-,

-t͟hərn

plural of brother

—used chiefly in formal or solemn address or in referring to the members of a profession, society, or religious denomination

our church brethren

Brethren

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plural noun

religion : members of various sects originating chiefly in 18th century German Pietism

especially : dunkers

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Plural Noun

1797, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing brethren

• Bohemian Brethren

Kids Definition

brethren

breth·​ren ˈbret͟h-(ə-)rən 

ˈbret͟h-ərn

plural of brother

—used chiefly in formal or solemn address